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Pain Medicine Residency
Message from the Program Director

Welcome, and thank you for your interest in the Pain Medicine Residency Program at the University of Toronto, administered through the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine.
As Program Director—and as a proud graduate of this very program—I am deeply committed to fostering an environment that delivers an exceptional and individualized training experience. I recognize the additional commitment our residents make by extending their training into this subspecialty, and I strive to ensure that this time is both meaningful and rewarding.
Together with our dedicated program administrator and faculty, we have designed a curriculum that is flexible, learner-centered, and focused on equipping each trainee with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue their ideal career path in Pain Medicine. Whether your goals lie in academic medicine, interventional practice, or multidisciplinary care, we are here to support your journey.
My passion for medical education extends beyond the program; I have been involved in advocacy and leadership roles at local and national levels, supporting both medical students and residents. This informs my approach to leadership—one rooted in mentorship, transparency, and continuous improvement.
Toronto is uniquely positioned to offer a rich and diverse array of clinical, academic, and research opportunities in Pain Medicine. We are proud of what our program offers, and we look forward to the opportunity to share more with you.
Matthew Sheppard MD FRCPC
Program Director, Pain Medicine Residency Program
Assistant Professor, Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine
University of Toronto
For more information, please contact us at:
Pilar Barrios
Program Officer
P: 416 978-6710
E: residency.painmedicine@utoronto.ca